Facing a shifting energy demand landscape, many energy and chemicals (E&C) companies have cost-reduction on their minds. : Facing a shifting energy demand landscape, many energy and chemicals (E&C) companies have cost-reduction on their minds. Geopolitical tensions, which often drive-up oil and natural gas prices, are driving up other costs as well. Slowing fossil-fuel demand growth, particularly in China, is dampening oil-price forecasts. Additionally, the inflationary cycle, though waning, has eaten into margins, highlighting the need to be more efficient in the future.